Annie-Chu
Blooming-Mini-Wreaths
Collage-Creatures
The Maker Lab offers basic workshops introducing you to free software and machines like 3D printers, laser cutters and vinyl cutters. We also have wonderful guest presenters who are professional creatives. In the Designer Spotlight Series, we want to acknowledge the expertise, inspiration and connections our presenters bring to the lab. Today we’re featuring Annie Chu, who has done a number of workshops at CPL locations, including Collage Creatures and Mini-Blooming Wreaths.
Q: What do you do?
A: I am a professional craft designer. I teach craft/DIY workshops, design wedding and party decor and have a passion for collecting and selling vintage kitchenware and glassware. Look for my shop on Etsy soon...peachykeenfinds!
Q: How did you hear about the Maker Lab?
A: I remember a newspaper article about 3D printers coming to Chicago Public Library. I did a Google search and voila!
Q: What did you teach?
A: I've taught Collage Creatures and Blooming Mini-Wreath.
Q: How have you used the experiences or information you gathered in the Maker Lab?
A: My experience and exposure to the Maker Lab has been so amazing. I've made friendships with staff to patrons, have had job opportunities open up, learned about software that has been able to enhance my current craft profession, learned how to plant a succulent garden (and keep it alive) and dabbled in cross-stitching...something I've always wanted to learn. Also, knowledge of this remarkable space, equipment and staff allowed me to laser cut (onto paper) 100+ wedding invites for a very good friend. This experience was incredible!
Q: Any suggestions or recommendations for future library projects?
A: Keep doing what you're doing...I love the mix of techy workshops to non-techy workshops.
Q: Anything else you would like to add?
A: Something I've discussed before...emphasizing walk-ins for workshops. I would like to see this posted not only on the registration site but at the door of Maker Lab, too. [Great idea! Keep an eye out for new signage.—CPL] Also, having non-techy workshops at other libraries would be a nice addition to explore other branches/neighborhoods and reaching out to those who can't make it downtown.
Don't miss Annie's next class from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, September 30 at the Harold Washington Library Center.
